Call for dementia innovations to support NHS
Search is on for new technologies, treatments or processes that could lead to earlier detection or faster diagnosis of dementia in the NHS.
Support for dementia innovation
As part of the NHS Fit for the Future Dementia Challenge, businesses can submit expressions of interest to UK Research and Innovation (UKRI) for support with clinical interventions or technological innovations that could:
- shorten the time it takes to diagnose dementia in the NHS
- enhance early detection of clinical change following diagnosis
- be deployed in the NHS from 2029
Healthcare professionals, businesses and researchers can take part. Check if your organisation is eligible. Applications can include more than one organisation.
Successful interventions will receive a fully funded real-world evaluation to generate the evidence needed for wider adoption across the NHS. Support will also be provided to help with regulatory clearance.
Expressions of interest must be submitted by 4pm on 2 April 2026.
If successful, you will be invited to submit a full application from 23 April 2026. Find full details and submit your expression of interest on the UKRI website.
Webinar for potential applicants
UKRI will hold an information webinar on 18 March 2026 at 11am to:
- explain the dementia challenge
- outline what they are looking for
- guide you through the expression of interest process
There will also be an opportunity to ask questions.
First published 13 March 2026